NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation announced a lineup of incredible performances for the 2025 Jazz & Heritage Gala – the official kick off celebration to this year’s New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell. The celebrity-filled extravaganza happens Wednesday, April 23, at Generations Hall in New Orleans. The Jazz & Heritage Patron Party presented by Delta Utilities begins at 6 p.m., followed by the gala from 7-10 p.m. The gala plays a vital role in raising essential funds and awareness for music education initiatives within the foundation’s programs, while also advocating for greater accessibility to music education in schools across New Orleans and Louisiana.
Journalist and media personality Lebron “LBJ” Joseph will co-emcee with multi-hyphenate Cole Williams of Jazz & Heritage radio station WWOZ 90.7FM. Mariachi Jalisco will open the gala with a spectacular showing during the patron party with traditional Mexican melodies that celebrates the cultural bond between New Orleans and Mexico. Talent on the Gala Ballroom Stage presented by the Gia Maione Prima Foundation includes The Ohio Players and Naydja CoJoe & the Lagniappe Section. The Gala Heritage Stage presented by Hancock Whitney features Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen and the Heritage School of Music All-Stars with Derek Douget, Andrew Baham, Grayson Brockcamp, Ricky Sebastian, Michael Pellera, and Tonya Boyd Cannon. Throughout the night, DJ Raj Smoove will keep the energy high with a nonstop mix of music.
A live auction will give guests the chance to bid on a carefully curated selection of exclusive items and experiences. From distinctive artwork and signed memorabilia to unforgettable vacations and VIP access to events, the auction showcases the culture and creativity of New Orleans and Louisiana. Proceeds from the auction will directly benefit the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation’s educational programs and community initiatives, enabling fest-goers to play a role in preserving and promoting the city’s heritage while enjoying an immersive experience. The Gala also benefits the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation’s flagship education program, the Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music, which provides free music education to nearly 300 Louisiana students.
Ticket packages include a gala-only pass or an eight-day pass to Jazz Fest that is transferable and allows for unlimited re-entry.
Join in for an electrifying evening as the start of Jazz Fest is celebrated.
Please visit jazzfestgala.com to purchase tickets or learn about sponsorship opportunities.
